What Should You Do With What You’ve Got? | Chase Jarvis RAW

TL;DR

Use the skills, gear, and limitations you already have as creative inputs rather than hurdles. Speaking around his IM Festival 2016 keynote in Berlin, Chase Jarvis says constraints sharpen focus and clarity, while committing to a path you care about makes you feel more alive and energized. He also explains why evolving dreams are valid and in-person gatherings can deepen online relationships. Read on for practical guidance on pursuing meaningful creative work.

Transcript

all right so we're in the back of maneuver uh here in Berlin on my way to give the keynot for the IM Festival 2016 and I'm super excited to talk about creativity technology and the revolution gorgeous theater right in the middle of Central Berlin my talk is basically about creative constraints it's when your backs against the wall and you you you y... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 Creative constraints can lead to the best work by fostering focus and clarity.
• 😫 Limitations can be seen as advantages by leveraging unique skill sets and available resources.
• ❓ Following one's passion and desires brings satisfaction and a sense of being alive.
• ❓ Trusting the instinctive pull towards a chosen path is crucial for personal fulfillment.
• 💱 Dreams can change and evolve, but the pursuit of the passion remains essential.
• 🧑 Connecting with others in person deepens and strengthens bonds more than online interactions.
• 👻 Networking and attending events allows for meaningful connections and growth in the creative field.

Questions & Answers

Q: What should you do with the skills and gear you already have?

Treat your current skills, gear, and limitations as creative inputs rather than hurdles. Chase Jarvis argues that these constraints can become advantages and levers when you lean into them.

Q: Why can creative constraints lead to better work?

Constraints reduce your options and force greater focus and clarity. Jarvis says some of the best work gets done when your back is against the wall and you must work with what is available.

Q: How should you view your biggest limitations?

View them as potential advantages rather than simply as problems. Your particular limitations, resources, and skill set can shape the work and give you a useful place to begin.

Q: What happens when you commit to a path you genuinely want?

Jarvis says committing to that path can make you feel good, more alive, and energized. Instead of pushing through each day, you begin to feel a compelling pull toward the work.

Q: How can you know which path to pursue?

Pay attention to the internal feeling that is already telling you what you want to do or become. Following it requires trust, especially when fear makes you resist committing.

Q: Is it acceptable for your dream or creative path to change?

Yes, the path can change, evolve, or shift by degrees. Jarvis says the important part is continuing to pursue your dream, not worrying that its specific form has changed.

Q: Why does Chase Jarvis value meeting people in person?

He says physical gatherings offer an unmistakable kind of connection that online communication does not fully replace. Friendships and bonds formed across the internet can become deeper and stronger at parties, gatherings, and meetups.

Q: When should creatives attend meetups and other events?

Jarvis recommends being proactive about attending when money and time permit. Such events create opportunities to connect with fans, friends, peers, and others across the creative landscape.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of creative constraints and how they bring focus and clarity to produce the best work.

• He encourages people to view their limitations as advantages and make the most of the skills and gear they currently have.

• The speaker highlights the satisfaction and energy that comes from following one's passion and desires, and he urges individuals to trust their instincts and commit to their chosen path.